Roadtrip from Chandler to Tucson: Museums, Parks, and Landmarks

Are you planning a roadtrip from Chandler to Tucson? This route offers a delightful mix of museums, parks, and landmarks that will keep you engaged and entertained throughout your journey. Here are some top recommendations for your itinerary.

Did you know that the stretch of Interstate 10 from Phoenix to Tucson is part of the old and historic Butterfield Overland Mail Route? This route dates back to 1857 when a stagecoach service operated between Saint Louis, Missouri, and San Francisco, California. The area owes its development to this mail route, which was instrumental in opening up the west to settlement and commerce.

About halfway point of Eloy, AZ, you are met with beautiful landscapes and vast open spaces. Eloy offers a glimpse of small-town life in Arizona.

The trip from Chandler to Tucson is approximately 110 miles long, taking roughly two hours. However, we recommend taking your time and making stops along the way to explore the top five attractions.

1. Pima Air and Space Museum

Pima Air and Space Museum is home to one of the world's most extensive collections of vintage aircraft. Visitors can explore over 350 planes and helicopters covering over 80 acres of outdoor exhibit space and five covered exhibit hangars. The museum offers a detailed history of aviation and provides an in-depth understanding of the evolution of air and space travel.

Point of interest recommendation: Don't miss the boneyard tour, where you can see government-owned aircraft stored and preserved for future use.

2. Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum

Located in Tucson, Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum is a world-renowned natural history museum that showcases the flora and fauna indigenous to the Sonoran Desert. The outdoor museum spans over 98 acres and features nature walks, animal habitats, and art displays. The museum is committed to engaging visitors with the natural world and promoting the conservation of plant and animal life.

Point of interest recommendation: Catch the bird show featuring free-flying birds of prey from across the globe.

3. Old Tucson

Old Tucson is a historic movie studio turned theme park, which is the perfect stop for western movie buffs. The movie studio produced over 300 western movies and TV shows, including the iconic, The Magnificent Seven. The theme park boasts of live-action shows, western gunfight reenactments, and a working blacksmith shop.

Point of interest recommendation: Don't forget to taste the root beer float, which has been featured in countless Hollywood movies.

4. San Xavier del Bac

San Xavier del Bac is a historic Spanish Catholic mission located on the Tohono O'odham Nation San Xavier Indian Reservation, founded in 1692. San Xavier is renowned for its stunning Baroque architecture, which showcases unparalleled colonial Spanish artistry. Visitors can tour the mission's interior and marvel at the religious iconography and murals.

Point of interest recommendation: Visit the gift shop, which features a variety of handcrafted items made by local Tohono O'odham artisans.

5. Casa Grande Ruins National Monument

The Casa Grande Ruins National Monument is a 1000-year-old structure that was once the centerpiece of a Hohokam community. The ruins comprise the Casa Grande, or the great house, and the surrounding compound of smaller buildings. The structure holds immense historical significance and is an architectural marvel of ancient Arizona.

Point of interest recommendation: Hike the Casa Grande Mountain Trail in the national forest, where you can get a bird's eye view of the surrounding countryside.

The roadtrip from Chandler to Tucson is a perfect blend of outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and natural wonders. From history buffs to nature enthusiasts, this route has something to offer everyone. Regardless of the activities you choose to pursue, the journey will undoubtedly be a memorable and enjoyable one.